Viva Florida 500

These days, Florida welcomes more than 87 million tourists a year, but five centuries ago, when Juan Ponce de Leon landed on what is now known as the east coast of Florida, visits from afar were rare. The Spanish explorer’s voyage, a failed attempt to find gold, brought European settlers to the land inhabited by Native Americans and launched a new era in Florida’s history.

To celebrate the New World discovery in 1513, the Sunshine State is hosting a long list of cultural and heritage events under the campaign “Viva Florida 500.” Here are some of the events.
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Justin Riney

Expedition Florida 500, statewide

This yearlong water adventure is a signature Viva Florida 500 event. Using standup paddle boards, Riney and crew are first traversing the state’s coastline and then will turn inland, exploring the rivers, lakes, estuaries, and marshlands that make up Florida’s freshwater ecosystem. Through its Facebook page, the expedition, whose goal is to highlight waterway stewardship, regularly posts invitations for the public to join them in paddling and cleanup efforts. Through Dec. 31, www.xf500.org, www.facebook.com/xf500Next

The double-sided Secunda etas Mundi map from 1493 is among the rare maps and Florida historical artifacts spanning more than 400 years on display from the Michael W. and Dr. Linda M. Fisher Collection in this museum exhibit. The maps depict the influence of Europeans on Florida, as well as the continuity of various cultures and languages throughout the state’s transformation. Free. Through Dec. 31, Florida Historic Capitol Museum, 400 South Monroe St., 850-487-1902,www.flhistoriccapitol.govNext

Visit Florida

Colonial Quarter, St. Augustine

This living-history museum commemorating the discovery of “La Florida” opens in the former site of Spanish Quarter Village, expanding the original site’s focus to include St. Augustine’s Spanish and British periods and the influences of African-American and Native American cultures. It will include exhibits, shows, taverns, and restaurants to immerse visitors in the historical experience. About $10-$30. Opening in March, 33 St. George St., 877-467-5863, www.colonialquarter.comNext

2013 Estate of Pablo Picasso / Artists Rights Society (ARS) New York

“Picasso: Art & Arena,” St. Augustine

This exhibit features 39 pieces from the Fundacion Picasso in Spain that have never been displayed in the United States. Pablo Picasso created them between 1929 and 1961, in different styles and media, and all focused on bullfighting. $5-$10. Through May 11, Visitor Information Center, 10 West Castillo Drive, 904-825-1000, www.staugustine-450.comNext

FloridasHistoricCoast.com

Lighthouse Maritime Festival, St. Augustine

The annual lighthouse festival expands to feature the nighttime event “Oh My Stars,” a look at how mariners navigate their ships using the location of celestial bodies. Other activities include wooden boatbuilding and a shipyard play area for children. $3-$25. March 1-2, St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum, 81 Lighthouse Ave., 904-829-0745, www.staugustinelighthouse.orgNext

Collier County Museum Naples FL

Old Florida Festival, Naples

Spend a day with a Calusa Indian, a Seminole family, a Civil War soldier, a Cracker cattleman, or a Spanish conquistador at this festival that brings together dozens of costumed time travelers, historical reenactors, and artisans. More than 10 centuries of life on the Southwest Florida frontier are re-created. $2-$5. March 9-10, Collier County Museum, 3331 US 41 East, 239-252-8476, www.colliermuseums.comNext

FloridasHistoricCoast.com

Landing of Ponce de Leon, Discovery of Florida, St. Augustine

This signature event commemorates the 500th anniversary of Ponce de Leon’s landing. Events include a ceremonial reenactment of the landing at the downtown bayfront, a Mass at Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, and the dedication of a reproduction baptismal font on which Ponce de Leon was baptized. Various locations. April 3, 904-825-1053, www.staugustine-450.comNext

Mission San Luis Florida Department of State (Photo by Roy Lett)

17th-Century Military Muster, Tallahassee

At Mission San Luis, where Apalachee Indians and Spanish missionaries lived together, experience pageantry and powder in this reenacted military muster. $2-$5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 11, 2100 West Tennessee St., 850-245-6406, www.missionsanluis.orgNext

Nao Victoria Foundation

Maritime Heritage Festival, St. Augustine

Boats from tall ships to fishing skiffs will celebrate seafaring history at the country’s oldest port. The festival will start with the launch of a high-tech sailing voyage around the world and include maritime exhibits and activities. Nov. 30-Dec. 8, St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez, 904-825-1000, www.staugustine-450.comBack to the beginning